Discover 5 Hidden Features of Notepad in Windows 11

Notepad, one of the oldest and most beloved applications in the Windows ecosystem, has not only survived the test of time but has also evolved significantly with the latest updates. Launched alongside Microsoft Windows in 1983, this simple text editor might seem straightforward, but recent enhancements have made it more versatile than ever. Let’s dive into five hidden features of Notepad in Windows 11 that you probably didn’t know about, and explore how these can enhance your productivity.

1. Tabs for Multi-Tasking​

One of the most significant updates to Notepad is the introduction of tabs, akin to those found in modern browsers like Microsoft Edge. Previously, managing multiple documents required opening separate windows, making organization cumbersome. Now, with a sleek '+' icon at the top of Notepad, you can easily open new notes in separate tabs.

Key Benefits:​

• Organized Workflows: Switch seamlessly between notes without losing context. This is especially useful for users working on projects that require comparisons or multitasking across various topics.
• Reorganizing Tabs: Simply click and drag tabs to rearrange them according to your preference—perfect for structuring your work or writing a draft in chapters.

2. Emojis? Yes, Please!​

Thanks to an update rolled out in February 2022, inserting emojis into your Notepad document has never been easier. By pressing the Windows + Period (.) keys, you can access a broad selection of emojis, allowing for a touch of personality and clarity in your text.

Use Cases:​

• Visual Reminders: Enhance your to-do lists or notes. A quick emoji can serve as shorthand for tasks, making your lists more visually engaging.
• Fun Formatting: If you're drafting invitations or creative presentations, emojis can provide a vibrant touch to your text.

3. Spell Check and Autocorrect​

In July 2024, Microsoft introduced spell checking to Notepad—an exciting update that brings it in line with more sophisticated text editors. With this feature activated, misspelled words are underlined in red, and right-clicking reveals suggested corrections.

What’s New?​

• Autocorrect Feature: Typing errors can get automatically corrected as you type, reducing the headache of manual proofreading.
• Customization: Users can enable or disable these features in Notepad's settings, tailoring the app to their writing style.

4. Dark Mode for Eye Comfort​

In an era where eye strain is a common ailment among digital users, the introduction of Dark Mode in December 2021 was a welcome improvement. Users can toggle Dark Mode to match their Windows 11 theme or set it independently in Notepad's settings.

Why Dark Mode?​

• Reduced Eye Strain: Perfect for late-night writing sessions, this mode can help lower strain, making it easier to work for extended periods.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Dark Mode gives Notepad a modern twist, appealing to users who prefer a sleek look.

5. Right-to-Left Text Support​

For speakers of languages such as Arabic and Hebrew, Notepad now makes it easier to format text in right-to-left (RTL) order with a user-friendly approach. Prior to recent updates, reformatting text required a keyboard shortcut, but now a simple right-click adds this functionality effortlessly.

Quick Access:​

• Highlight text and right-click: Choose the 'right-to-left reading order' from the dropdown menu. This makes accessing essential formatting a breeze for users working in multilingual settings.

Conclusion: Embracing Modern Text Editing​

With these innovative features, Notepad has transformed from a simple text editor into a more robust tool suitable for a variety of writing tasks—whether you’re crafting a novel, drafting a report, or simply jotting down quick notes. It proves that even established applications can evolve and adapt to meet modern needs.
If you haven't revisited Notepad in a while, these enhancements are a compelling reason to give it another shot. It stands as a reminder that even the most classic tools can incorporate modern functionality, keeping them relevant and useful for the next generation of Windows users. So whether you're a novice writer looking to document your thoughts or an experienced pro needing a lightweight editing tool, Notepad remains a surprisingly powerful ally in your productivity arsenal.
Source: XDA 5 Notepad features you didn't know about in Windows 11